In my last blog I had touched on some connections between specific nutrients and how that can affect mood disorders, like seasonal affective disorders (SAD). What a person eats can affect not just the individual, but it has the potential to expand to an entire society.
For example, The trend surrounding the lack of omega-3 consumption and rates of illness can be seen occurring internationally. The relevance of polyunsaturated fatty acids for their effects on mental disorders has been … [Read more...]

Confused by vitamin claims?
Vitamin A for skin
B for metabolism
C for immunity…the list goes on and on
Declaring, that they are all vitally important requirements for health and wellbeing.
Scientists are divided in their theories of how necessary these vitamins really are. Some studies announce that certain vitamins are imperative for the prevention and treatment of illnesses; while others seem to revoke them stating that they are irrelevant and have no more effect than placebo(1). … [Read more...]

It’s the middle of winter, green grass and +20 C weather seem like a distant memory. With the less daylight outside paired with blistering winds, you notice yourself becoming more tired than in the summer months. Perhaps you find yourself indulging in high sugar/high fat comfort foods, maybe you find yourself quick to anger or tears these days. The mere thought of exercise or eating salad sends you hiding under your covers. Going out and socializing seems like a chore particularly when you feel … [Read more...]

It doesn't matter if you are new to fitness, or have been active your whole life - everybody needs to consider over-training, and make sure to incorporate rest into their routine. I am a prime example of this - I've been physically active since I began walking. My parents kept me pretty busy with registered programs and activities my whole life, so as an adult I have a hard time sitting down and being idle.
Over a year ago I was so overzealous with teaching group fitness classes and running … [Read more...]

So let me ask you… When you look at this picture, what do you see?
At first glance I perceived the glass to be half empty. I mean, how would YOU feel if you asked someone for a glass of water and they handed it back to you only half full? Confused? Disappointed? Maybe even a little bit put off with the person that handed it to you? I would probably feel all three simultaneously!
But then I got to thinking about it a bit more.
It seems that far too often we are so focused on … [Read more...]

Full of nutritious value and disease fighting properties, these super-foods have many potential benefits when we incorporate them into our diets. Optimize your health by incorporating them into your daily routine:
Quinoa: This ancient grain stands out as one of the few complete vegetarian sources of protein. It’s great for weight loss as it is low-carb, as well as providing your recommended daily dose of iron.
Sweet Potatoes: One sweet potato contains the recommended daily dose … [Read more...]

Full of nutritious value, disease fighting properties, and healthy qualities - superfoods have many potential benefits when we incorporate them into our diets. Optimize your health by incorporating them into your daily routine:
Black Molasses: Jam-packed with antioxidant-rich polyphenols and iron, black molasses may also reduce body fat and levels of leptin (the hunger hormone). Try adding a tablespoon of this thick, tasty syrup drizzled on your morning oatmeal or mixed into your coffee, tea … [Read more...]

With its warm temperatures and thriving greenery, summertime has a knack for kick-starting us to get motivated and to get moving.
For many of us, running outdoors feels only natural. Like an unquenchable thirst, we are left feeling dry and depleted if we do not drink (or in this case, run). For others, the act becomes a new journey inwards towards resilience and self-discovery. The physical endurance certainly plays an important role, but it is the mental endurance that becomes the most … [Read more...]

Full of nutritious value, disease fighting properties, and healthy qualities - superfoods have many potential benefits when we incorporate them into our diets. Optimize your health by incorporating them into your daily routine:
Flax Seeds: One of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, flax is also a fantastic source of calcium and magnesium. Regular consumption of flax improves cognitive function, soothes mental/ emotional imbalances and nourishes the skin, hair and nails to make them … [Read more...]

What is Yang Energy: As your "fiery energy", Yang is the action behind every process between your mind and body; it drives and motivates all your emotional , physical, and spiritual decisions. All decisions, from a the abilities of your jumping body to the speed of your functioning nervous system, are considered to be Yang energy.
What is Yin Energy: Yin, our "restorative energy", allows our mind-body to slow down, relax, and rest. Yin energy are encompasses the elements … [Read more...]